10 Best Budget Over-Ear Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones in Moonstone Blue are a strong choice for anyone looking for budget-friendly over-ear headphones that don't compromise on comfort or sound quality. They offer excellent noise cancellation with both active and passive features, helping to block out distractions whether you’re commuting or working. The plush ear cushions and padded headband make them comfortable to wear for long periods, which is great if you listen to music or podcasts all day. Sound-wise, they deliver clear, high-fidelity audio with an adjustable equalizer so you can tweak the bass, mids, and treble to suit your taste.

Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 24 hours on a single charge, and a quick 15-minute charge gives you a couple of hours extra, which is handy if you’re in a rush. The headphones connect via Bluetooth with a stable range of about 30 feet and support multipoint connectivity, meaning you can switch between devices like your phone and laptop without hassle. If the battery runs out or you prefer a wired connection, the included audio cable lets you keep listening.

On the downside, these headphones are not water-resistant, so they’re not ideal for use during heavy workouts or in wet conditions. The touch controls, while modern, might take a bit of getting used to, and some users might find the price slightly above typical budget options. However, the solid build quality featuring leather and metal parts adds durability and a premium feel. These headphones suit people who want reliable noise cancellation, great comfort for extended use, and flexible connectivity, all with sound quality that can be personalized, making them a smart pick for everyday music lovers and travelers on a budget.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 stands out in the budget over-ear headphone category primarily because of its excellent noise cancellation, making it a great choice for anyone needing to block out distractions during travel, work, or busy environments. Thanks to its advanced HD Noise Canceling Processor and 12 microphones, it provides clear sound without outside noise interruptions. The sound quality is impressive for this price range, offering rich, balanced audio that stays true to original recordings—ideal for music lovers who care about clarity.

Comfort is thoughtfully handled with a soft, pressure-free headband and cushioned ear cups designed for long listening sessions, which is important if you plan to wear them all day. The build quality feels sturdy with metal parts and a foldable design that fits into a compact carrying case, which helps with portability. Battery life is strong, delivering up to 30 hours per charge, and quick charging means just 3 minutes of power can give you about 3 hours of playback. Bluetooth 5.3 ensures reliable wireless connectivity with most devices within about 10 meters, and it also supports connection via a cable if needed.

Additional features like an adaptive noise cancellation optimizer and auto ambient sound mode adjust audio settings based on your environment, which adds convenience and a more natural listening experience. The headphones also support high-resolution audio for better sound quality if you have compatible sources. On the downside, the WH-1000XM6 is not water-resistant, so it's less suitable for workouts or use in rainy conditions. While highly capable, these headphones are often priced higher than typical budget models, so it might be a stretch for strictly budget-focused buyers. The touch controls can be sensitive and take some getting used to. These headphones provide premium noise canceling, excellent sound, and comfort typically found in much more expensive models, making them a smart pick for users seeking quality wireless over-ear headphones with great features, as long as water resistance isn’t a priority and the price fits your budget.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Headphones stand out with strong features typically sought in budget-friendly over-ear headphones. Sound quality is enhanced by spatial audio and CustomTune technology, offering a richer and more personalized listening experience than many competitors in this price range. Noise cancellation is effective, with multiple modes to suit different environments, making these headphones a great choice for noisy commutes or travel.

Comfort is a key strength, with soft ear cushions and a well-designed headband that distributes pressure evenly, ideal for long listening sessions. The build feels lightweight yet solid enough for everyday use, though the plastic material may not have the premium feel of more expensive models. Battery life is impressive, offering up to 24 hours on a single charge and quick top-ups via USB-C, which is convenient for users on the go. Bluetooth 5.3 ensures stable connectivity within 30 feet, and features like SimpleSync allow easy pairing with Bose soundbars, adding flexibility. The inclusion of touch controls and head motion activation provides intuitive, hassle-free operation.

The headphones may be slightly heavier than some budget options and require a 3-hour charge time, which is longer than fast-charging competitors. Although the price might be on the higher side for a budget category, these headphones deliver excellent noise isolation and sound clarity that justify the cost for users prioritizing immersive audio and comfort. Those looking for a versatile pair for entertainment and travel will find these a reliable and enjoyable pick.